Yushima Tenjin Shrine — Attraction in Tokyo

A Hidden Oasis of History and Tranquility in Tokyo

While walking from Tokyo Station to Ueno Park, I stumbled upon Yushima Tenjin Shrine, an unexpected yet unforgettable discovery. Climbing the centuries-old stone steps, I felt as if I had stepped back in time, immersed in a space where history, spirituality, and architectural beauty converge. Despite the distant hum of the modern city, the serene atmosphere within the shrine grounds remains undisturbed.

Originally founded in 458 AD during the reign of Emperor Yūryaku, Yushima Tenjin is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, a revered scholar, poet, and deity of learning. It has long been a place of devotion for students seeking academic success, with thousands visiting each year to offer prayers for good fortune in their studies. The shrine’s elegant wooden architecture, intricate carvings, and beautifully preserved structures stand as a testament to its rich cultural heritage.

I visited at the onset of the plum blossom festival, a time when the shrine begins its transformation with the setup of traditional stalls and festivities. Although this slightly altered the usual clean, quiet emptiness, the shrine still retained its magical, spiritual, and enlightening aura. In full bloom, the plum trees surrounding the shrine create a breathtaking spectacle, reinforcing Yushima Tenjin’s reputation as one of the most picturesque sanctuaries in Tokyo.

For those who enjoy scenic walks, I highly recommend visiting on foot from Ueno Okachimachi Station or Hongo Sanchome Station, both about a 25-30 minute walk. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply looking for a moment of peace in the heart of Tokyo, Yushima Tenjin Shrine is an...

If you would like to visit an old shrine with long history then this is one of such oldest Shinto shrines around Tokyo. This shrine is also called as Yushima Tenjin. This is a small shrine located close to Ueno park and Tokyo University. This shrine seems to be initially devoted for the God of sports and physical power. This shrine seems gained great popularity during Edo period after the visit of many scholars. The current structure of the shrine was rebuilt in 1995 with cypress trees. Now this shrine is devoted to the God of learning "Tenjin". The major annual events like Hatsumode (New year), Une Mathiri (Plum blossom between Feb. 7~Mar. 7), Tension-sai(Grand festival on May 25) and Kiku Mathiri (Chrysanthemum festival on Nov. 23) attracts lots of visitors here. This shrine is popular among students to pray for their good...

This was her first visit since they were holding a chrysanthemum festival. She walked from JR Ueno Station, but it wasn't that far. I was playing monkey mawashi for the Nikko Monkey Corps. Since it was a weekday, there were only a few stalls. There was a toilet. Since it was during the festival period, we entered the Treasure Hall for 300 yen per person, a 200 yen discount. There were some very interesting exhibits. Three chrysanthemum dolls were made from the Taiga drama ``Hikaru Kimi e''. There were 4 types of Goshuin stamps (as it was during the Chrysanthemum Festival). She received a 500 yen item designed for the...